How to Ask for a Raise: Tips and What to Say

Last updated November 6, 2026

To ask for a raise, research the pay range for your role and list your recent wins with numbers. Ask your manager for a short meeting and make a clear, confident request. If the answer is not yet, ask what you need to do and set a date to follow up.

Many people never ask for a raise because it feels awkward. Good preparation makes the talk calm, clear and more likely to work.

Key Takeaways

• Research fair pay for your role and city.
• Bring results, not just effort.
• Pick a good time, like review season.
• Ask for a specific number or range.
• Follow up in writing after the meeting.

On This Page

• When to Ask for a Raise
• How to Ask for a Raise Step by Step
• What to Say
• If the Answer Is No
• Other Things You Can Ask For
• Research Your Market Value
• Pick the Right Time of Year
• Know Your Own Numbers
• Practice Your Pitch
• Handle Common Objections
• Tips for Remote Workers
• Asking at a Small Business
• Negotiate a New Job Offer
• Follow Up in Writing
• Mind Your Tone and Body Language
• Phrases to Avoid
• Plan Your Next Step
• Ask for a Promotion Instead
• Celebrate Your Effort

When to Ask for a Raise

Good times include annual reviews, after a big win or when you take on new duties.

Avoid busy crunch periods or right after bad company news.

How to Ask for a Raise Step by Step

1. Research Pay

Check salary sites and job posts for similar roles in your area.

2. List Your Wins

Write three to five results with numbers, like sales growth or time saved.

3. Pick Your Number

Choose a specific amount or range based on your research.

4. Schedule a Meeting

Ask your manager for 20 minutes to talk about your role and pay.

5. Practice Your Pitch

Rehearse with a friend. Keep it short, positive and focused on value.

What to Say

Use this calculator to see what a raise means for you.

• Market pay research
• Three to five results with numbers
• Target number or range
• Meeting request sent
• Practice run done
• Follow-up email ready

If the Answer Is No

Stay calm and thank your manager. Ask what goals would earn a raise.

Agree on a timeline, such as three or six months, and check in then.

Other Things You Can Ask For

If pay is frozen, ask about extra time off, flexible hours or training budgets.

A new title or more responsibility can also lead to higher pay later.

Keep a Wins File

Save emails, praise and results in one folder all year. It makes the next request much easier.

Update it each month so nothing slips your mind.

Research Your Market Value

Know what your role pays before you ask. Data makes your request stronger.

The Occupational Outlook Handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) lists typical pay for hundreds of jobs. It also explains job duties and growth.

CareerOneStop, sponsored by the United States Department of Labor, offers free career and salary tools. Compare pay in your city and industry.

Look at job postings for similar roles too. Many now list salary ranges.

Pick the Right Time of Year

Timing can matter as much as your pitch. Many companies set budgets for raises once a year.

Ask your manager when budgets get decided. Make your request a few weeks before that time.

Right after a big win is also a great moment. Your value is fresh in everyone’s mind.

Know Your Own Numbers

Decide on the raise you want before the meeting. Have a target number and a lowest acceptable number.

Think about how a raise fits your budget. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) offers free budgeting tools.

Ask for a specific amount or percentage. Vague requests are easier to put off.

Practice Your Pitch

Practice helps you sound calm and confident. Say your main points out loud several times.

Ask a friend to play your manager. Have them ask tough questions.

Keep your pitch short, about two minutes. Then pause and let your manager respond.

Handle Common Objections

Managers may push back, even when they value you. Prepare simple, calm replies.

Stay friendly and focused on facts. Your goal is a plan, not an argument.

Tips for Remote Workers

Remote work can make your wins less visible. Keep your manager updated on progress.

Send a short weekly or monthly summary of what you finished. Include results and positive feedback.

Ask for your raise on a video call, not by email. Seeing each other builds connection.

Asking at a Small Business

Small businesses may have tighter budgets. Show how your work helps the business earn or save money.

Be open to creative options if cash is tight. Extra paid time off or flexible hours can add real value.

Small business owners often appreciate honesty. Share your goals and ask how you can grow with the company.

Negotiate a New Job Offer

The best time to raise your pay is often before you accept a new job. Employers expect some negotiation.

Thank them for the offer and ask for time to review it. Then share your research and request a specific number.

Consider the whole package, including health insurance, retirement match and paid leave. These perks add up.

Follow Up in Writing

After your meeting, send a short thank-you email. Recap what you discussed and any next steps.

If your manager agreed to a raise, confirm the amount and start date. Written notes prevent confusion later.

If they said not yet, note the date you agreed to revisit the topic. Add it to your calendar.

Mind Your Tone and Body Language

How you speak matters as much as what you say. Sit up straight, make eye contact and speak at a steady pace.

Avoid apologizing for asking. A raise request is a normal part of work.

Listen carefully to your manager’s response. Nodding and asking questions shows respect.

Phrases to Avoid

Some phrases can weaken your request. Avoid saying you need money for personal bills.

Do not compare yourself to a specific coworker’s pay. Focus on your own results.

Skip threats to quit unless you truly plan to leave. Ultimatums can damage trust.

Plan Your Next Step

If you keep hearing no, think about your long-term goals. Ask what skills or results would earn a raise.

Build those skills and track your progress. Request a check-in in three to six months.

If nothing changes after a fair effort, explore other options. Your skills may be worth more elsewhere.

Ask for a Promotion Instead

Sometimes a new title opens the door to higher pay. If you already handle bigger tasks, ask about a promotion.

List the duties you took on beyond your job description. Show how they match the next level role.

Ask your manager what the path to promotion looks like. Get clear goals and a timeline.

Celebrate Your Effort

Asking for a raise takes courage. Whatever the answer, you practiced an important career skill.

Each conversation makes the next one easier. Keep updating your wins file and stay ready for the next chance.

Raise Request Mistakes to Avoid

Some habits can weaken your case for a raise. Watch out for these common mistakes.

• Asking without examples of your results
• Comparing yourself to coworkers
• Asking during a stressful week for your manager
• Giving up after one no

Bring a short list of your wins and results. Clear examples make your request stronger.

If the Answer Is No

Ask what you can do to earn a raise in the future. Agree on clear goals and a time to talk again.

Test Yourself

Frequently Asked Questions

How much of a raise should I ask for?

Base it on market research and your results.

Should I ask by email?

Ask for the meeting by email. Have the talk in person or on video.

What if I am nervous?

Practice ahead and bring notes. Nerves are normal.

Is it okay to mention other offers?

Only if you are truly ready to leave.

How much of a raise should I ask for?

Base your request on market data and your results. Many people ask for a raise between 3 and 10 percent, depending on the role.

Is it okay to ask for a raise by email?

It is better to ask in person or on a video call. Use email to schedule the meeting and follow up.

Wrapping Up

Start your wins list today and plan your conversation for review time. Clear proof makes a strong case.

Plan your money with our guide to build an emergency fund. Budget smart with our holiday budget guide.

Editor’s Note

This guide is accurate as of November 6, 2026. Pay practices vary by company and industry.

Spot an error in this article? Please contact us at support@digieh.com or read our Corrections Policy.

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